GOD-GIVEN WORK
Last Saturday I was privileged to be present at the ‘refounding meeting’ in Wellington, initiated by your current President, Gerry Stevens. Observing the vitality, the enthusiasm and the unity of those present was worth witnessing. It was particularly inspiring when a younger member from Auckland spoke.
You will all know that there is concern re declining numbers, aging members as well as other difficulties in our conferences throughout New Zealand. It is not unusual for institutions to go through this stage of dying in order to rise again. It is the story of the Jewish people, it is the story of the Church. It is mine and your story; and now the New Zealand Vincentian story.
At the Conference, I was struck by the openness of those present to find new ways to revitalise the society in New Zealand: this focus is not to be treated lightly. It is in itself a wonderful thing. What matters is that it exists. It is not a plan or a model that will save the Society, but the heartfelt longing and desire to serve in a relevant way. God will always fulfill our desires and dreams when we place them in his hands. The Spirit of God will quietly reveal the way.
In our longing for new life, we can put our minds at ease because clearly, love for Vincentian work was markedly present in all at the conference last Saturday. When love and desire is the foundation and there is openness to the new, God will do the rest.
I am writing this article 5 days after the conference. In the readings for today’s Mass I have been struck by what St Paul writes. It occurred to me to adapt it for you all:
It was our God who gave you the desire to work for the poor.
You have not taken to this work because you are deluded,
In the hope of receiving honor from another.
Instead, you have been unassuming
Compassionate
Generous
Caring
Devoted and protective -
Like a mother feeding and looking after her own children -
Towards those who are desperate
These are ones whom you have come to love so much
Which is why you are fit to be entrusted with this work
Refounding
Reinvigorating
Beginning again.
(Inspired by 1 Thes 2:2-8).
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Discussion: Comment on the concept of refounding. Is it needed? Why?
